Web of Knowledge

PICTURE PERFECTIONIST: Erik Gauger's blog is distinguished by its immaculate photography  like this image of Bombay Beach, California

Planning a trip and need a heads-up on the hidden quarters and cool hangouts that the average visitor doesn't get to hear about? Then leave your guidebook at home and instead let a growing army of travel bloggers show you the way. Traditional travel books often can't compete with the vast breadth of information on the Internet  or a dedicated blogger's constantly updated insights into his home turf or topic. So whether you're after the best burger in Brooklyn or the hottest hotel in Berlin, simply log on. There's a blogger waiting to help.